'Start Error' SLK 320 (2000)

[carlsbergy]

Hi,

New to the forum, my partner went to start her car this morning and the engine will not turn over and a 'Start Error' flashes in the mileage box on the dash. Any ideas please/cause of action?

Thanks

 

[chipray]

This happened to my SLK320 a couple of years ago in Spain, about a thousand miles from home, just before Christmas, and I didn't have my spare key with me. The first thing would be to try the spare key if you have one, and/or replace the key batteries.

I can't say for certain that your fault is the same as mine, which turned out to be an electronic module (Part No. A 170 820 17 26, don't know what it is called but it costs a bomb) that decides whether the key you put in the ignition is the correct one for the car. You know that you are using the right key, but the faulty module has decided that you are trying to steal the car so it refuses to allow you to start it. A new module, programmed to your chassis, has to be obtained from the factory in Germany via your friendly local Mercedes dealer, to whom you have to prove ownership and identity. My bill was over 850 Euros, but that included some of the hire car charges for my trip home and back. The part supply was delayed by Christmas so I had to pay an extra 5 days car hire, Mercedes paid for the first 5 days (Mobilo also paid for a night in a hotel plus a couple of taxi rides).

 

[carlsbergy]

Thanks very much for the info. I'll look into that.

 

[type49]

As Chipray says, that part is called DAS control unit. It sits under the dash, slightly to the right of the steering column. The "Start error" display can happen if there is a fault with the key, DAS unit or the chrome ring that sits around the ignition barrel. Obviously try the spare key first.

 

[carlsbergy]

Start Error

Recharged the battery, disconnected it for a couple of mins - start error warning gone out and car ok now. Thanks for replies

 

[mattkh]

Recharged the battery, disconnected it for a couple of mins - start error warning gone out and car ok now. Thanks for replies

Hi
Did you put the car battery on charge while it was still connected ?